Hydralazine is best described as which type of antihypertensive?

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Multiple Choice

Hydralazine is best described as which type of antihypertensive?

Explanation:
Hydralazine is best described as a direct-acting arteriolar vasodilator. It relaxes smooth muscle in small arteries, lowering systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure. Because it primarily affects arteries, it reduces afterload more than preload, and reflex changes like tachycardia and fluid retention can occur, often requiring combination with a beta-blocker or diuretic. The other drugs shown belong to different classes: beta-blockers decrease heart rate and contractility, while an ACE inhibitor lowers blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II formation. Thus the correct description is a direct-acting vasodilator targeting the arteries.

Hydralazine is best described as a direct-acting arteriolar vasodilator. It relaxes smooth muscle in small arteries, lowering systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure. Because it primarily affects arteries, it reduces afterload more than preload, and reflex changes like tachycardia and fluid retention can occur, often requiring combination with a beta-blocker or diuretic. The other drugs shown belong to different classes: beta-blockers decrease heart rate and contractility, while an ACE inhibitor lowers blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II formation. Thus the correct description is a direct-acting vasodilator targeting the arteries.

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